AN INTERNATIONALLY-acclaimed painter has praised the work of students from a school at its recent art exhibition.

Soraya French was invited along to Thorngrove School, Highclere, on March 4, to see a display from the school’s art students.

More than 140 pieces of work from students in Years 3 to 8 were featured with several prizes up for grabs including Best Landscape, Best Portrait and Best Still Life.

Year 7 pupil Charlie Weston had his artwork of a London street scene, titled Piccadilly, chosen as Painting of the Year.

He said: “I found it very difficult to start the painting and almost gave up but once I got the buildings right, it all started to look better.

“I didn’t think it would win though.

“I’m really glad I finished it and I’m glad people liked it.”

The exhibition was organised by head of art at Thorngrove School, Miranda Bryan, who has been working with pupils for the past six months – helping them explore visual storytelling through collage, painting, print-making and drawing.

Miranda added: “It’s always a thrill to see students express themselves through art – to watch ideas take shape on paper.

“This year a lot of the work has been inspired by nature and changing landscapes as well as people and urban spaces.”

The artwork was judged by Soraya - who is best known for her vibrant and colourful acrylic paintings - and head of art from Pangbourne College, Iain Young.

Headteacher at Thorngrove School, Adam King, said the school delighted to have the support of an artist like Soraya.

Mr King added: “To see so much amazing creative talent on show was marvellous.

“We are very grateful to Soraya for taking the time to judge the event.”